A 25-year-old woman has recurrent abrupt episodes of palpitations, chest tightness, trembling and fear of dying that peak within 10 minutes. ECG, TSH

Question

A 25-year-old woman has recurrent abrupt episodes of palpitations, chest tightness, trembling and fear of dying that peak within 10 minutes. ECG, TSH and haemoglobin are normal. She avoids buses because she fears another episode. What should you tell this patient?

Accepted Answer

These episodes are consistent with panic attacks, and CBT or an SSRI can reduce recurrence

Answer

Cardiac catheterisation is required before discussing anxiety

Answer

The normal tests prove the symptoms are imagined

Answer

Benzodiazepines are the preferred long-term first-line treatment

Answer

She should avoid physical activity until symptoms stop

Panic disorder — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

A 25-year-old woman has recurrent abrupt episodes of palpitations, chest tightness, trembling and fear of dying that peak within 10 minutes. ECG, TSH and haemoglobin are normal. She avoids buses because she fears another episode. What should you tell this patient?